MINISTER for Sport and Tourism Richard Caborn has officially opened a £2.1m activity centre.

The minister unveiled a commemorative plaque at Hartlepool's Summerhill Centre before taking part in a archery demonstration with centre experts, joined by Olympic athlete Alison Curbishley.

The centre is a 100-acre country park developed by Hartlepool Borough Council for a wide range of sports and other recreational pursuits.

It will provide a unique range of facilities, including a purpose-built visitor centre, children's play areas, a boulder park for climbing enthusiasts, a BMX cycle track and orienteering course.

Tony Davison, manager at Summerhill which currently attracts up to 50,000 visitors a year, said he was delighted with the centre's progress.

He added: "In a period when the region is undergoing many exciting developments, the Summerhill centre will serve to enhance the further regeneration of Hartlepool."